Review: Jura American Rye Cask 14 Years Old

Smell that whisky: Sherry, amirite? As a matter of fact, no: This exciting new release from Jura is a 14 year old that is aged in a combination of American bourbon and rye whiskey casks — the latter being a twist that is a rarity in Scotland.

The nose immediately threw me for a loop: Orange and lemon peel, then black tea, incense, and heavily floral perfumes. This immediately evoked the aromas of a sherry-finished Scotch, only spicier and racier, making for quite a heady introduction to the spirit. On the palate it definitely follows through with that initial punch, hitting well beyond the expectations of a 14-year-old with its boldly floral and intensely nutty qualities. A big almond nougat note washes over the midpalate before ceding time to a spicy mix of red pepper, allspice, cloves, and, finally, torched orange peel.

The finish is sharp and lashing, again pushing the suggestion of sherry somehow bonded with a racy spice of rye grains. I’m not sure what rye whiskey barrels Jura sourced to make this concoction, but whatever they had to work with must have been a barn-burner.

Bottom line: Jura 14 is a unique and aggressive expression that should be your first stop when sampling a collection of whiskies for the evening, if for no other reason than to tell you palate to wake the hell up.

80 proof.

A- / $75 [BUY IT NOW FROM RESERVEBAR]

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